A multistructure fire that burned several abandoned homes June 2 on Turlington Road in Harvey is being investigated as potential arson, the Harvey Fire Department said in a statement.
“Evidence has been recovered indicating that the fires may have been intentionally set,” fire officials said in the statement. “Additional forensic analysis and investigative work are required to confirm these findings.”
The houses caught fire at 2:30 a.m. June 2, on the 15400 block of Turlington Road and the fire was brought under control by 4 a.m., fire officials said.
“We take these incidents very seriously and are committed to identifying those responsible,” fire Chief Howard Fisher said in a statement. “The safety of our residents, businesses, and firefighters remains our highest priority.”
The department said it was working with state and local partners on the investigation.
The fires spread from two structures that were fully engulfed in flames to two nearby abandoned buildings as a result of the extreme radiant heat and active power line hazards, the department said. ComEd temporarily cut the power as a safety precaution.
No injuries were reported.
Harvey furloughed about 40% of city workers in October after declaring a state of financial distress, including nearly half of the Fire Department. Over the past seven months, it has made use of fire mutual aid from surrounding communities to fill the gap.
Officials encouraged anyone with information regarding the fires to contact 708-331-7720.
elewis@chicagotribune.com
